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Hidden Gems: The Best Pintxos In The Basque Country, Spain

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by Alice Somers

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Looking for the best pintxos in the Basque Country? You're in for a treat! This region of Spain boasts some of the most delicious and creative small bites you'll ever taste. From the bustling streets of San Sebastián to the charming corners of Bilbao, pintxos bars offer a culinary adventure like no other. Imagine savoring skewered delights, fresh seafood, and local specialties, all paired with a glass of txakoli or cider. Whether you're a foodie or just curious, exploring these hidden gems will leave your taste buds dancing. Ready to dive into the world of Basque pintxos? Let's get started!

Discovering the Best Pintxos in the Basque Country

The Basque Country in Spain is a food lover's paradise, especially when it comes to pintxos. These small, flavorful bites are the region's answer to tapas. Let's explore some of the best spots to savor these culinary delights.

San Sebastián: A Pintxos Paradise

San Sebastián, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, also boasts some of the best pintxos bars in the Basque Country. Here are a few must-visit places:

  1. La Cuchara de San Telmo: Famous for its innovative pintxos, this spot offers dishes like foie gras with apple compote and veal cheeks in red wine.

  2. Bar Zeruko: Known for its modern take on traditional pintxos, try the "La Hoguera," a smoked cod dish that comes with its own mini grill.

  3. Gandarias: A classic choice, this bar serves up traditional pintxos like Iberian ham and grilled prawns.

Bilbao: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation

Bilbao, with its mix of old and new, offers a diverse pintxos experience. From traditional bars to modern eateries, there's something for everyone.

  1. Café Iruña: Established in 1903, this historic café serves a variety of pintxos, including the famous "pintxo moruno," a skewer of marinated lamb.

  2. El Globo: Popular among locals, this bar offers a wide range of pintxos, from seafood to vegetarian options. Don't miss the "txangurro," a spider crab dish.

  3. Gure Toki: Located in Plaza Nueva, this bar is known for its creative pintxos like foie gras with apple and caramelized onion.

Vitoria-Gasteiz: A Hidden Culinary Gem

Vitoria-Gasteiz may not be as famous as San Sebastián or Bilbao, but it has its own share of fantastic pintxos bars. Here are a few to check out:

  1. El Portalón: Housed in a 15th-century building, this bar offers traditional Basque pintxos with a rustic charm. Try the "bacalao a la vizcaína," a cod dish in a tomato and pepper sauce.

  2. PerretxiCo: Known for its modern twist on classic pintxos, this bar serves dishes like "huevo trufado," a truffle-infused egg pintxo.

  3. Sagartoki: Famous for its innovative approach, this bar offers pintxos like "huevo frito con patatas," a deconstructed fried egg with potatoes.

Hondarribia: Coastal Delights

Hondarribia, a picturesque coastal town, offers a unique pintxos experience with a focus on fresh seafood. Here are some top spots:

  1. Gran Sol: A local favorite, this bar offers a variety of seafood pintxos, including grilled octopus and anchovies with green peppers.

  2. Ardoka Vinoteka: Known for its extensive wine list, this bar pairs its pintxos with the perfect glass of wine. Try the "txipirones," baby squid in their ink.

  3. Gastroteka Danontzat: This bar offers a mix of traditional and modern pintxos, with highlights like "pulpo a la gallega," Galician-style octopus.

Pamplona: Beyond the Running of the Bulls

Pamplona is famous for its annual bull run, but it also has a vibrant pintxos scene. Here are some places to visit:

  1. Bar Gaucho: A must-visit for any pintxos lover, this bar offers a wide range of options, including "solomillo," a tenderloin pintxo with foie gras.

  2. Iruñazarra: Located in the heart of the old town, this bar serves traditional pintxos like "pimientos rellenos," stuffed peppers.

  3. Baserri: Known for its creative pintxos, try the "tosta de bacalao," a cod toast with roasted red peppers.

Savoring the Best Pintxos in Basque Country

Basque Country offers some of the most delicious pintxos you'll ever taste. From San Sebastián to Bilbao, each city has its own unique flavors and specialties. Don't miss out on La Cuchara de San Telmo for their famous foie gras or Bar Zeruko for innovative twists on traditional dishes. Bilbao's Café Iruña serves up mouth-watering morcilla and pintxo moruno.

Exploring these hidden gems will give you a true taste of Basque culture. Each bite tells a story of tradition, innovation, and passion for food. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, the pintxos in Basque Country are a culinary adventure you won't forget. So grab a plate, join the locals, and enjoy the vibrant flavors that make this region a food lover's paradise.